3 (Third)
This range eliminates shifts into Overdrive. The trans-
mission will operate normally in First, Second and
Third while in this range. The “3” position should also
be used when descending steep grades to prevent
brake system distress.
NOTE:
Using the “3” range while operating the vehicle
under heavy operating conditions will improve perfor-
mance and extend transmission life by reducing exces-
sive shifting and heat build up.
L (Low)
This range should be used for engine braking when
descending very steep grades. In this range, upshifts
will occur only to prevent engine overspeed while
downshifts occur earlier than other gear range selec-
tions.
CAUTION!
Never race the engine with the brakes on and the
vehicle in gear, and never hold the vehicle on an
incline without applying the brakes. These practices
can cause overheating and damage to the transmis-
sion.
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been
added to the automatic transmission of this vehicle. A
clutch within the torque converter engages automatically
at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly differ-
ent feeling or response during normal operation in high
gear. When the vehicle speed drops, or during accelera-
tion, the clutch automatically and smoothly disengages.
NOTE:
•
The torque converter clutch will not engage until the
transmission fluid and engine coolant is warm (usu-
ally after 1–3 miles (1.6–4.8 km) of driving). Because
engine speed is higher when the torque converter
STARTING AND OPERATING 217
5
clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmis-
sion is not shifting into “Overdrive” when cold. This is
considered a normal condition. Pulling the selector
lever into the “3” position will show that the transmis-
sion is able to shift into and out of “Overdrive.”
•If the vehicle has not been driven for several days, the
first few seconds of operation after shifting the trans-
mission into gear may seem sluggish. This is due to the
transmission fluid partially draining from the torque
converter into the transmission. This is considered a
normal condition and it will not cause damage to the
transmission. The torque converter will refill within 5
seconds of shifting from P (Park) into any other gear
position.
Transmission Limp Home Mode
The transmission is monitored for abnormal conditions.
If a condition is detected that could cause damage, the
transmission automatically shifts into second gear. The
transmission remains in second gear despite the forward
gear selected. P (Park), R (Reverse), and N (Neutral) willcontinue to operate. This Reset feature allows the vehicle
to be driven to a dealer for service without damaging the
transmission.
If the problem has been momentary, the transmission can
be reset to regain all forward gears.
•Stop the vehicle and shift into P (Park).
•Turn the key to LOCK then start the engine.
•Shift into D (Drive) and resume driving.
NOTE:Even if the transmission can be reset, we
recommend that you visit a dealer at your earliest
possible convenience. Your dealer has diagnostic equip-
ment to determine if the problem could recur.
If the transmission cannot be reset, dealer service is
required.
218 STARTING AND OPERATING
Towing Tips
Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping,
and backing the trailer in an area located away from
heavy traffic.
Towing Tips — Automatic Transmission
The “D” range can be selected when towing. However, if
frequent shifting occurs while in this range, the “3” range
should be selected.
NOTE:Using the “3” range while operating the vehicle
under heavy operating conditions will improve perfor-
mance and extend transmission life by reducing exces-
sive shifting and heat build up. This action will also
provide better engine braking.
The automatic transmission fluid and filter should be
changed if you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than
45 minutes of continuous operation. See Schedule “B” in
section 8 of this manual for transmission fluid change
intervals.
NOTE:Check the automatic transmission fluid level
before towing.
7 - Pin Connector
280 STARTING AND OPERATING
JUMP-STARTING PROCEDURES
WARNING!
•Take care to avoid the radiator cooling fan whenever the
hood is raised. It can start anytime the ignition switch is on.
You can be hurt by the fan.
•Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get it started.
Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission cannot
be started this way. Unburned fuel could enter the catalytic
converter and once the engine has started, ignite and
damage the converter and vehicle. If the vehicle has a
discharged battery, booster cables may be used to obtain a
start from another vehicle. This type of start can be danger-
ous if done improperly, so follow this procedure carefully.
•Battery fluid is a corrosive acid solution; do not allow
battery fluid to contact eyes, skin, or clothing. Don’t lean
over battery when attaching clamps or allow the clamps to
touch each other. If acid splashes in eyes or on skin, flush
contaminated area immediately with large quantities of
water.
•A battery generates hydrogen gas, which is flammable and
explosive. Keep flame or spark away from the vent holes.
•Do not use a booster battery or any other booster source
with an output that exceeds 12 volts.
•The battery in this vehicle has a vent hose that should not
be disconnected and should only be replaced with a battery
of the same type (vented).
NOTE:The battery is stored under a hinged access
cover in the load floor in the cargo area. Remote battery
terminals are located in the engine compartment for
jump-starting.
1. Wear eye protection and remove any metal jewelry
such as watchbands or bracelets that might make an
inadvertent electrical contact.
2. When boost is provided by a battery in another
vehicle, park that vehicle within booster cable reach, but
do not allow the vehicles to touch one another.
WARNING!
Do not permit vehicles to touch each other as this
could establish a ground connection and personal
injury could result.
294 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
▫Body Lubrication.....................320
▫Wiper Blades........................320
▫Windshield Washers/Rear Window Washer . . . 321
▫Exhaust System......................321
▫Cooling System.......................322
▫Hoses And Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses.......327
▫Fuel System.........................327
▫Brake System........................327
▫Automatic Transmission................330
▫All Wheel Drive (AWD) — If Equipped.....331
▫Front And Rear Wheel Bearings...........332
▫Appearance Care And Protection From
Corrosion...........................332
▫Cleaning The Center Console Cup Holders . . . 336Fuses (Power Distribution Centers).........337
▫Fuses (Front Power Distribution Center).....337
▫Fuses (Rear Power Distribution Center)......339
Vehicle Storage........................344
Replacement Light Bulbs................344
Bulb Replacement......................345
▫Low Beam Headlight, High Beam Headlight,
And Park/Turn Light..................345
▫Tail/Stop, Turn Signal Light, And Backup
Light ..............................346
▫License Light........................349
Fluids And Capacities...................350
Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine Parts......351
▫Engine.............................351
▫Chassis............................352
302 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
CAUTION!
Do not allow petroleum base fluid to contaminate
the brake fluid, all brake seal components could be
damaged causing partial or complete brake failure.
Automatic Transmission
Fluid Level Check
Regular automatic transmission fluid level checks are not
required. For this reason, the dipstick is omitted.
If you notice fluid loss or gear shift malfunction, have
your authorized dealer check the transmission fluid level.
CAUTION!
•Using a transmission fluid other than the manu-
facturer’s recommended fluid may cause deterio-
ration in transmission shift quality and/or torque
converter shudder. Using a transmission fluid
other than that recommended by the manufac-
turer will result in more frequent fluid and filter
changes. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genu-
ine Parts” for the correct fluid type.
•The fluid level is preset at the factory and it does
not require adjustment under normal operating
conditions. If a transmission fluid leak occurs,
visit your authorized dealer immediately. Severe
damage to the transmission may occur. Your au-
thorized dealer has the proper tools to adjust the
fluid level accurately.
Fluid and Filter Changes
Automatic transmission fluid and filter should be
changed as follows:
Normal Usage — No change necessary
330 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Severe Usage (fluid and filter) — Refer to Maintenance
Schedule “B”
Severe Usage is defined as:
•Police, taxi, limousine, commercial type operation, or
trailer towing where the vehicle is drivenregularlyfor
more than 45 minutes of continuous operation.
If the transmission is disassembled for any reason, the
fluid and filter should be changed.
Special Additives
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered
product and its performance may be impaired by supple-
mental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid addi-
tives to the transmission. The only exception to this
policy is the use of special dyes to aid in detecting fluid
leaks. In addition, avoid using transmission sealers as
they may adversely affect seals.
All Wheel Drive (AWD) — If Equipped
The all wheel drive system consists of a Transfer Case
and Front Differential. The exterior surface of these
components should be inspected for evidence of fluid
leaks. Confirmed leaks should be repaired as soon as
possible.
The transfer case fluid inspection plug is located in the
middle of the rear housing. To inspect the transfer case
fluid level, remove the inspection plug. The fluid level
should be even with the bottom of the hole. The transfer
case fill plug is located on the rear housing near the
output shaft.
The front differential fill plug is located on the outer
cover near the halfshaft attachment. To inspect the differ-
ential fluid level, remove the fill plug. The fluid level
should be even with or slightly below the bottom of the
hole.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 331
7
Chassis
Component Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts
Automatic Transmission MoparATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Brake Master Cylinder MoparDOT 3, SAE J1703 should be used. If DOT 3, SAE J1703 brake
fluid is not available, then DOT 4 is acceptable. Use only recommended
brake fluids.
Front Axle API Certified GL-5 SAE 75W90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant or equivalent.
Power Steering Reservoir MoparPower Steering Fluid + 4, MoparATF+4 Automatic Transmission
Fluid.
Rear Axle API Certified GL-5 SAE 75W140 Synthetic Gear Lubricant or equivalent.
Transfer Case MoparTransfer Case Lubricant LX, P/N 05170055AA, or equivalent.
352 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE